Pros & cons
PROS
- Authentic slice of early Otago–Westland history on a gentle grade
- Swing bridge, clear pools, and tributary stream bridges add variety
CONS
- Requires a car shuttle or out‑and‑back; walking the highway is unsafe
- Davis Flat parking can wash out during heavy rain
Park at either Davis Flat car park or the Haast Pass/Tioripatea summit car park on SH6. Two vehicles recommended; nearest toilets at Cameron Flat campsite 10 km south. Avoid leaving a car at Davis Flat overnight during heavy rain forecasts.
Do not walk along SH6 between trailheads; sections are slippery after rain. Davis Flat car park can wash out—avoid overnight parking in heavy rain. No dogs; drones need authorization.
Overview
A mellow, history‑soaked wander between the Davis Flat car park and the Haast Pass/Tioripatea summit, this well‑graded forest path follows a remnant of the original route that once linked Otago and Westland. Expect intimate beech rainforest, vibrant ferns, mossy trunks, and occasional peeks at the blue‑hued Makarora River. It’s a through‑track with two trailheads; most hikers either shuttle cars or simply walk it out and back.
Distance, Time, Difficulty
Plan on roughly 4.3 miles total if you do it return, or about 2.2 miles one way between trailheads. Typical return time is 2.5–3 hours at an easy, look‑around pace. The grade is gentle and well maintained—“easy to intermediate”—but still real walking, with a steady climb toward the pass if starting from Davis Flat.
What You’ll See
From Davis Flat, the track meanders beside the Makarora through lush beech, with a swing bridge and clear blue pools adding some sparkle. Early on, there’s a glimpse of Stewart Falls. Near the summit end, short bridges span lively tributary streams—extra scenic after rain. Birdlife is a quiet companion, and the trail is generally uncrowded.
Best Time to Hike
Year‑round. Wet days turn the forest emerald and pump up the streams and cascades, but also make roots and boardwalks slick—take your time and good footwear.
Logistics and Tips
- Two vehicles make this a relaxed one‑way; otherwise, turn around and retrace your steps. Do not walk back along State Highway 6—it’s narrow and busy.
- Many hikers prefer starting at Davis Flat for early river views, then finishing at the Haast Pass summit.
- Toilets are at Cameron Flat campsite, about 10 km south along the highway. The Davis Flat car park can be vulnerable to washout in heavy rain; avoid leaving a vehicle there overnight during such forecasts.
- Want a bonus viewpoint? From the Haast Pass/Tioripatea summit, a separate 1‑hour return track across the road climbs to the Haast Pass Lookout.
Regulations and Safety
No dogs. Drone use on public conservation land requires prior authorization. Expect slippery sections after rain and minor undulations along the way.
Near Historic Bridle Track
All places →All trails →
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Earnslaw BurnHanging glaciers and waterfalls after a big, rough hikeTrailhead · Parking
Gillespie PassA big alpine pass with huge views and real commitmentScenic Viewpoint
Routeburn TrackAlpine-to-rainforest Great Walk with huts, waterfalls, and big views.Challenging · 20.5 mi · 13 hr
Rob Roy Glacier TrackShort climb to a hanging glacier, waterfalls, and likely kea.Moderate · 6.4 mi · 3.5 hr
Cascade Saddle TrackSteep, exposed alpine route to glacier vistas with real consequencesChallenging · 18.6 mi · 10.5 hr
Gillespie Pass CircuitBig South Island scenery, serious rivers, and a real alpine workout.Challenging · 35.5 mi · 20 hr
